Contact cement is an adhesive that is typically used to permanently bond two mating surfaces. It is often composed of neoprene and synthetic rubber. This gives it outstanding thermal and water resistance, while also making it very easy to apply. There are numerous manufacturers of contact cement today, from generic ones to branded ones like Rugby, 3m contact cement and vinyl adhesive. There are numerous ways to apply contact cement as well. Some of the commonly used application methods are listed below.
Contact Cement Application Methods
- Brushes
- Rollers
- Hot or cold air spray
- Hot or cold airless spray
- Notched trowels
- Curtain coating
Whether you choose a liquid or spray contact cement, application steps are quick and easy. Still, application would vary largely depending on the surface it would be applied on. Here are the basic steps in using contact cement which is applicable to any kind of surface.
Basic Steps In Applying Contact Cement
- Clean all surfaces that you want to bond together.
- Apply an even, thin coat to both surfaces.
- Allow both coatings to cure. While this takes 5 to 15 minutes on average, the labeling for your concrete cement should list the manufacturer’s recommended curing time.
- Press the two surfaces together firmly.
- Allow time for the bond to set. The bond is typically functional within a few minutes. Full setting and waterproofing can take up to 72 hours.
Depending on the type of contact cement used and the environment you are applying it in, there are certain precautions that should be taken to avoid potential injury or illness. There are actually government-regulated substances included in making contact cement. If you still don’t know by now, inhaling the vapor of contact cement have the same effect of illegal drugs that works as a hallucinogen. Hence, if you inhaled too much of the stuff you might be in for a different kind of contact – contact with your maker. Therefore, it is very important to use contact cement properly not just to avoid ruining your work clothes but also for your safety as well.
Contact Cement Usage Safety Guidelines
- Always apply contact cement in a well-ventilated area. Fumes can cause nausea and illness.
- Avoid open flames near or around the application area. The fumes and the adhesive might be highly flammable depending on the type you are using.
- Avoid getting adhesive on skin, clothing or surrounding surfaces. Contact cement can cause stains and is difficult to remove from many surfaces. If you need to remove 3m contact cement or other types of contact cement from a surface or clothing, there many companies that produce specialized thinner and contact cement remover. If you do not have any of these nearby, a product containing acetone or Xylene will typically dissolve the adhesive.
Depending on the products that you are bonding, you can make changes to the bonding environment to affect properties of the adhesive like any other construction adhesive. This can allow for more time or quicker curing if needed. It is very important that you do not move or tamper the subjected object while it is curing. That would reduce the bonding strength of the contact cement. It takes approximately an hour for the contact cement to cure or even longer depending on the kind of application. Below are some curing techniques you can apply to speed up the curing or make it stronger.
Contact Cement Curing Tips
- Heat will increase the speed at which the contact cement cures. If you need precision placement, applying the cement in a cool room will allow more time to position the bonding surfaces. When using spray contact cement on vertical surfaces, a warm room will reduce bonding time. This can allow for quicker work and a tighter seal.
- Humidity can also affect drying times and the finish of the bonding. Applying in a low-humidity, high-temperature environment will provide the best results. In cooler, humid environments blushing can occur. This is when moisture accumulates on the surface as the solvent in the contact cement evaporates. Blushing can result in a weak seal and should be avoided.
By keeping these things in mind, it is easy to use contact cement for a variety of household purposes. Popular uses of contact cement include numerous jobs such as applying veneer to countertops or tables; resurfacing cabinets and other furniture; basic shoe repair; patching PVC piping; installing wallpaper in rooms and so much more.